Furniture is often one of the most expensive items in a home. But even the best pieces lose their luster over time. Buying new furniture can be expensive, especially if it’s a dresser that no longer fits or a worn-out chair. The good news is that you don’t always have to buy new furniture to freshen up your home. If you’re creative, hard-working, and use inexpensive materials, you can give old furniture a brand-new look with DIY projects and save money at the same time. This saves you money and allows you to create a living space that’s uniquely yours.
Why DIY?
Refurbishing furniture yourself is a great way to save money without sacrificing style. Many people enjoy giving worn-out furniture a modern, stylish look. This approach is good for the environment because it reduces waste and the need for new furniture. Instead of throwing old furniture away, you can give it a new life in your home. DIY projects can also provide a great sense of satisfaction and allow you to showcase your creativity and skills.
Brand New Look
Painting furniture is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to transform the look of your furniture. A fresh coat of paint can give a simple wooden dresser or side table a brand new look. Soft neutral tones like white, black, and gray can add a modern touch to your room. If you’re going for a bold look, bright colors like blue, mustard yellow, or even crimson can instantly stand out. Chalk paint is a popular choice among DIYers because it’s easy to prepare and has a smooth, matte finish. Applying a protective layer to painted furniture will help it last longer.
Replacing Hardware
Replacing furniture hardware is another easy and affordable way to give old furniture a fresh look. Adding new knobs, handles, or doorknobs to old furniture can quickly improve its appearance. Adding modern, glossy finishes like brushed gold, matte black, or polished chrome can also make furniture look elegant and new. Even seemingly dated hardware can add character and charm to a simple dresser or cabinet. This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to give old furniture a fresh look. All you need are a few simple tools.
Repurposing Old Furniture
With a little creativity, you can give old items a new purpose. A worn-out dresser can be transformed into a stylish TV stand, a wooden door into a rustic dining table, a bookshelf into a storage bench, and with some cushions and fabric, you can turn a coffee table into a footstool. By giving furniture a new lease on life, you can create both style and functionality without having to buy new ones.
Upholstery
Upholstery is an easy way to renew fabric chairs, sofas, and footstools. Professional upholstery can be expensive, but you can do it yourself for less. With the right fabric, a nail gun, and a little time, you can give your old chairs a brand-new look. Sturdy yet stylish fabrics like linen, cotton, or silk can instantly give your furniture a fresh new look. You can also upholster an old chair with printed fabric to add a touch of style to your interior and make it a focal point in your living room.
Stenciling and Other Retouches
For the artistically inclined, stenciling is a great way to personalize furniture. Using paint and paper cutouts, you can create patterns, pictures, or even words on dressers, cabinets, and tables. This can add color and detail to otherwise dull furniture. Adding wallpaper inserts to drawer fronts or creating a collage with decoupage can also give your furniture a unique, handmade look. These methods save money and allow your furniture to reflect your personal style.
Sanding and Staining Wood
If you’re looking for a more natural look, cleaning and staining are both good options. Removing old paint or finish reveals the natural beauty of the wood. Applying a new stain can highlight the natural grain of the wood, giving the furniture more warmth and depth. Light stains can give furniture a rustic, country look, while darker stains create a sleek, modern look. This method is best suited for tables, chairs, and wooden cabinets with sturdy frames.
Easy and Hassle-Free Benefits
Refinishing furniture yourself is a great way to save money, as you can give your furniture a brand-new look for less than buying new. A can of paint, a few yards of fabric, or a tool set is much more affordable.
FAQS
Can a beginner change the look of furniture?
Yes, many tasks are easy for beginners. Simple changes, such as painting, sealing, or replacing hardware, don’t take long and don’t require many tools.
What amount can you save by upcycling furniture on your own?
Generally, you can save up to 70%–80% by not buying new furniture. The exact amount depends on the specific job.
What tools do you need to change the look of furniture?
Sandpaper, brushes, screwdrivers, and furniture nailers are among the most basic supplies. Power tools can be useful for larger jobs, but aren’t always necessary.
What old furniture should I try to restore?
If the frame is sturdy and the furniture itself is in excellent condition, it’s usually worth restoring. Cosmetic issues, such as scratches, worn fabric, or faded paint, are usually easy to correct.
Summary
Refurbishing your furniture is a creative and affordable way to improve the look of your home. If you don’t want to buy brand new furniture, you can transform old furniture into stylish and practical pieces that reflect your personal style. There are so many things you can do, from painting and staining to reupholstering and finding new uses for old items. These transformations not only save you money, but also reduce waste and give you the satisfaction of having done something. With a little thought and effort, your old furniture can once again become the centerpiece of your home.
